The Federal Medical Centre (FMC), Jabi, has refuted social media claims that it failed to provide proper care to Ifunanya Nwagene, who died from complications after a snake bite.
In a statement released on Sunday, the hospital confirmed that Ms. Nwagene passed away due to severe neurotoxic effects following the snake bite she sustained on January 31, 2026. FMC Abuja extended condolences to the family, describing the loss as tragic and noting that all necessary medical interventions were promptly administered.
Signed by the Head of Clinical Services, Dr. Bioku Muftau, the statement explained that the medical team immediately provided emergency care, including resuscitation, intravenous fluids, intranasal oxygen, and administration of polyvalent snake anti-venom.
“Our team acted quickly and appropriately upon her arrival. Anti-snake venom was administered, and standard emergency procedures were followed,” the statement said.
The hospital added that after assessment, it was clear the patient had already developed severe neurotoxic symptoms. Plans to transfer her to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) were underway, but her condition worsened suddenly before the move. Despite intensive resuscitation efforts, including CPR, the medical team was unable to save her.
FMC Abuja strongly denied allegations of negligence, lack of response, or unavailability of anti-venom, describing such claims as false and misleading. “We stand by the quality of care delivered. Reports suggesting inadequacy or absence of anti-venom do not reflect reality,” the statement stressed.
The hospital urged the public to rely on verified sources rather than unconfirmed social media claims and reaffirmed its commitment to transparency, integrity, and excellence in patient care.
Background
Nwagene, also known as Nanyah, was a soprano singer with the Amemuso Choir. Her death was confirmed by the choir on Instagram, which described her as a rising talent whose voice and spirit will be greatly missed.
Her passing sparked widespread reactions online, with some users raising questions about the availability of life-saving anti-venom in public hospitals. Content creator Aproko Doctor also criticised public hospitals for frequently lacking essential emergency medications.
This case has reignited debates over whether Nigerian public hospitals are adequately equipped to handle snake-bite emergencies and what it reveals about the broader state of the nation’s healthcare system.
